Why Oil Rig Engineers Should Consider Power Factor Correction

Quality Energy • April 14, 2023

Power Factor Correction (PFC) is critical in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of electrical systems on land rigs. With the increasing demand for energy and the need for efficient operations, land rig operators need to understand the importance of PFC and how it can benefit their operations.

What is Power Factor Correction?
Power Factor Correction is a technique used to improve the efficiency of an electrical system by adjusting the relationship between the active power (the power used to perform work) and the reactive power (the energy used to create magnetic fields) in an AC electrical circuit. By improving the power factor, the electrical system can deliver more active power and less reactive power, reducing energy losses and increasing efficiency.

Why is PFC Important on Land Rigs?

Land rigs are complex and energy-intensive operations, requiring a constant and reliable power source to ensure smooth operation. However, the electrical systems on oil rigs often suffer from poor power factor, leading to energy losses and low energy efficiency.


By implementing PFC, land rig operators can improve the power factor of their electrical systems, reducing energy losses and increasing efficiency. This can result in significant cost savings on energy bills and help to extend the life of electrical equipment by reducing the strain on the system.


Additionally, PFC can improve the electrical system’s reliability by reducing the risk of equipment failure and power outages. By ensuring that the electrical system is operating at its highest efficiency level, PFC can help reduce downtime and increase productivity.


Read how Quality Energy's discovery of low power factor at Ensign Energy's existing gen-sets led to the installation of Power Factor Correction Units to reduce fuel use and improve the rig's efficiency.


How is Power Factor Correction Achieved on Land Rigs?

PFC can be achieved by installing Power Factor Correction equipment such as PFC units. A PFC unit consists of capacitor modules and a controller that works as a buffer between your incoming power supply and your main distribution panel. It improves the power factor by reducing the amount of reactive power in the system.


The installation of PFC can be a complex process. To ensure optimal performance, it is recommended to have the PFC system designed and installed by a professional electrical contractor who specialises in power quality and power factor correction.


In conclusion, PFC is essential in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of electrical systems on oil rigs. By reducing energy losses and improving efficiency, PFC can result in significant cost savings, increased productivity and minimised downtime. If you are an oil rig operator looking to improve your electrical system, consider investing in power factor correction to achieve optimal performance and a more sustainable and profitable operation.

Since 1989, Quality Energy has been in the business of helping other businesses improve energy efficiency and reduce their energy cost. We do that by providing specialist Power Quality management solutions for companies across every industry.

We are one of the few specialists who manufacture our own Power Quality systems here in Australia. This means we can custom-design, build, install and maintain our Power Factor Correction units and systems to the highest standards according to your energy-use profile and sector.

Call our team to discuss how our Power Factor Correction system can help provide clean, uniform power on your oil rig.

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